Newcastle United issue official statement confirming deadline day after U-turn

The 26-year-old arrived at Newcastle in the summer on a free transfer from AFC Bournemouth, signing a five-and-a-half-year contract.

But Kelly struggled to force his way into the Magpies’ starting XI, finding himself behind Dan Burn and Sven Botman at centre-back, as well as Lewis Hall and Matt Targett at left-back.

Eddie Howe previously played down the prospect of Kelly leaving but Juventus made an offer Newcastle simply couldn’t refuse in what is a compliance and headroom boost in a world of Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

Kelly joins on an initial loan deal, which includes a £20million obligation to buy in the summer.

What Eddie Howe said previously

"I think it's a slightly different situation with Lloyd. I've seen a little bit of the speculation on Lloyd. We've certainly not had any bid anywhere close to making the club make a decision on that,” said Howe.

"Lloyd's an integral part of what we're doing from my perspective. His challenge is to try and work his way into the team. He's only just arrived, so I think he's got a lot to achieve here. So, a very different situation."

Newcastle United club statement

“Lloyd Kelly has completed a loan move to Italian Serie A side Juventus, subject to international clearance,” a Newcastle statement read. “Juventus have an obligation to make the transfer permanent this summer for an undisclosed fee.

“The defender, who arrived at St. James’ Park from AFC Bournemouth at the end of his Cherries contract in summer 2024, has made seven starts for the Magpies in all competitions this season, with a further seven substitute appearances.

“Newcastle United thanks Lloyd for his efforts and wishes him well in Turin.”

What next for Newcastle United?

Two first-team exits, no new signings. Newcastle are officially closed for business.

The departure of Miguel Almiron and Kelly undoubtedly weakens the squad and doesn’t help matters in the short-term as United look to qualify for Europe.

It’s a big risk but it’s clearly one Newcastle feel they need to take. The suggestion is that by not spending this month, the club will be in a stronger position financially to recruit in the summer. Of course, the proof will be in the pudding.

Newcastle had to sell to Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh last June in order to satisfy Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) and avoid a points deduction.

Quite simply, they don’t want to be in such a dire situation again. It was Anderson and Minteh then, United don’t ever want it to be someone like Alexander Isak, Bruno Guimaraes, Anthony Gordon or an academy product like Lewis Miley.